May 1, 2024
Updated May 30, 2025
27 minute read
An In-Depth Guide to Web Servers
At a fundamental level, a web server is a combination of computer hardware and software that delivers web content, such as websites, to users across the internet. Think of it as a powerful computer that's always connected to the internet, waiting to fulfill requests from your web browser. When you type a website address into your browser or click on a link, your browser sends a request to the web server that hosts that particular site. The web server then processes this request and sends back the necessary files – like text, images, videos, and application data – so that the website appears on your screen.
193bzl|
Find a path to becoming a Web Server. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/193bzl/web
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Web Server.
Provides a deep dive into web server performance tuning, covering topics such as caching, load balancing, and optimization. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve the performance of their web server.
Provides a comprehensive overview of web servers, covering topics such as history, architecture, and protocols. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the inner workings of web servers.
Provides a deep dive into web performance tuning, covering topics such as caching, load balancing, and optimization. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve the performance of their web site.
Provides a comprehensive overview of web server security, covering topics such as authentication, authorization, and encryption. It is written in a clear and concise style, making it easy to understand even for beginners.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/193bzl/web